Overcoming the Fear of Solitude: A Journey to Self-Understanding and Growth
Humans have an inbuilt need to belong, an ancient survival mechanism. In a world filled with sell-outs and fakes, being a good person means you will likely have fewer friends. However, this is not a reason to dread or fear being alone. Instead, it's a chance to learn and grow. Hang in there, Kitty, everything will come good.
Self-Care and Emotional Health
Learn to take care of yourself, and don't expect others to do it for you. Commit to a physically and emotionally healthy lifestyle. Avoid using alcohol, drugs, and other addictive behaviors as a means to feel better. These can backfire and undermine your growth and emotional health. Love and respect yourself, and others. Have open communication and learn to trust yourself and those who have earned your trust. Understand that some people may disappoint you. Don't try to control them but control your responses. Don't expect everyone to like you. Choose your friends wisely. There are many emotionally stunted people who behave improperly and embarrass themselves and others. They are not your problem or responsibility. You will not always get what you want. Life involves calculated risks and leaps of faith. Be secure in yourself. No one is perfect, do the best you can, and own up to making mistakes, correcting them, and apologizing. Don't let fear keep you from living your best life. You will experience loss—divorce, breakups, death. Whatever the circumstances, grieve the loss and move forward.
The Fear of Solitude and its Roots
Many people fear and run from that which they do not know. Because you have never been alone with yourself, you are running from yourself. This fear is often a result of internalizing societal pressures and expectations. To cope with these feelings, many people have regressed, seeking the approval of others for comfort. This has become an addiction. You have become conditioned to the approval of all who surround you, making the levels of any toxicity seem irrelevant. 'They' give you what you desperately need to feel sane—your identity. You now share in a collective mindset filled with erroneous beliefs. It all boils down to one word:
The Ego
The Ego is a construct that can cloud your judgment and keep you stuck in patterns that are not conducive to growth and happiness. To overcome the fear of solitude, one must work on understanding and transcending the Ego.
Embrace solitude as an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery. Use this time to reflect on your values, goals, and aspirations. Be patient and allow yourself the space and time to grow. Remember, true growth and happiness come from within. So, take the first step towards your best self today, no matter how tiny it may seem.
Final Thoughts
In a world that can often be overwhelming and chaotic, learning to be alone with yourself is a powerful tool for personal growth. It requires patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to your emotional well-being. Embrace solitude as a haven for self-discovery, and you will find that you can thrive even in the most challenging of times.